Difference Between All, Each & Every
“All,” “each,” and “every” are words used to refer to groups or quantities of things, but they are used differently based on context and meaning.
All
Definition: “All” refers to the entire amount or number of something without exception.
Usage:
- With Plural Nouns: “All” is used with plural countable nouns and uncountable nouns.
- Example: “All the students are present.” (plural noun)
- Example: “All the water was wasted.” (uncountable noun)
- With Singular Nouns (Less Common): In some contexts, “all” can be used with singular nouns.
- Example: “All the information is correct.”
Each
Definition: “Each” refers to every one of two or more people or things, considered individually.
Usage:
- With Singular Nouns: “Each” is followed by a singular noun and takes a singular verb.
- Example: “Each student has a book.”
- Example: “Each student has a book.”
- Emphasizes Individuality: It focuses on the individual members of a group.
- Example: “Each of the employees was given a bonus.”
Every
Definition: “Every” refers to all members of a group considered collectively, but individually.
Usage:
- With Singular Nouns: “Every” is followed by a singular noun and takes a singular verb.
- Example: “Every student has a book.”
- Example: “Every student has a book.”
- Indicates Frequency: Often used to express regularity or frequency.
- Example: “He visits the gym every day.”
Difference Between All, Each & Every
All | Each | Every | |
Definition | Entire amount or number without exception | Every one of two or more individually | All members of a group collectively but individually |
Noun Agreement | Plural nouns and uncountable nouns | Singular nouns | Singular nouns |
Verb Agreement | Can take singular or plural verbs depending on context | Singular verbs | Singular verbs |
Emphasis | Collectiveness | Individuality | Collectiveness but with individual members |
Example Sentence (Plural Noun) | “All the players were tired.” | “Each player was given a medal.” | “Every player was ready.” |
Example Sentence (Uncountable Noun) | “All the furniture is antique.” | Not applicable | Not applicable |
Example Sentence (Frequency) | Not commonly used | Not commonly used | “He runs every morning.” |
Focus | The whole group | Individual members of the group | Every member of the group considered separately |
Negative Context | “All” can be used in negative contexts | “Each” is less common in negative contexts | “Every” is less common in negative contexts |
The words “all,” “each,” and “every” serve distinct functions in English grammar, and understanding these differences can enhance clarity and precision in communication:
- “All” is used to refer to the entire group or total quantity without exception, emphasizing the collective nature. It is typically used with plural countable nouns and uncountable nouns (e.g., “All the students are here,” “All the water is gone”).
- “Each” focuses on individual members within a group, considering them separately. It is always followed by a singular noun and takes a singular verb (e.g., “Each student has a book”). This word highlights the individuality within the group.
- “Every” also refers to all members of a group but emphasizes the collective in terms of individual members considered one by one. It is followed by a singular noun and takes a singular verb, often used to indicate regularity or frequency (e.g., “Every student has a book,” “He visits the gym every day”).
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